Facing the possibility of gynecological surgery can be a source of significant stress and concern. The decision to undergo a surgical procedure is a major one, requiring trust in your medical team's skill, experience, and commitment to your well-being. You need a surgeon who not only masters advanced techniques but also provides compassionate, patient-centered care.
At Athens ObGyn, our board-certified physicians are highly skilled and experienced gynecologic surgeons serving Athens, GA. We are at the forefront of gynecological surgery, committed to providing "above and beyond" care that ensures you feel informed, supported, and confident throughout your surgical journey. As members of the Piedmont Clinic, we combine a dedication to innovation with the highest standards of medical excellence. Our team has extensive experience with a wide range of gynecological surgery procedures, from minimally invasive techniques to more complex operations.
We offer state-of-the-art care, including advanced laparoscopic gynecologic surgery, at both St. Mary's Hospital and Piedmont Athens Regional. This dual affiliation provides you with greater flexibility and access to top-tier surgical facilities. If you are looking for a gynecologic surgeon near you who prioritizes your health and comfort, we invite you to schedule a consultation to discuss your needs.
Gynecological surgery refers to any surgical procedure involving the female reproductive system, including the uterus, ovaries, cervix, and vagina. These procedures are performed to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions that may not respond to other medical treatments. Surgery can be a solution for issues causing pain, bleeding, or other serious health concerns, such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, pelvic organ prolapse, or abnormal cervical cells found during a Pap test.
Our approach to gynecological surgery is to use the most effective and least invasive method possible. Many of our surgeries can be completed using minimally invasive techniques, including no abdominal incisions with a vaginal hysterectomy or other surgeries such as laparoscopy, which involves small incisions, less pain, and a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery. Our ultimate goal is to resolve your medical issue and improve your quality of life with the highest level of surgical care.
Our experienced surgeons perform a comprehensive range of gynecological surgery procedures. We create a personalized treatment plan for each patient, ensuring the recommended surgery is the best option for your specific condition and health goals. Some of the common procedures we perform include:
Whenever possible, our surgeons opt for minimally invasive gynecological surgery because it offers several significant benefits for patients compared to traditional open surgery. This modern approach uses small incisions and specialized instruments, leading to a much gentler experience. The primary benefits include:
Our team is highly trained in these advanced techniques, ensuring you receive the best possible care with the smoothest recovery.
Recovery from gynecological surgery varies greatly depending on the specific procedure performed and whether it was an open or minimally invasive surgery. For in-office or minimally invasive procedures like a LEEP or diagnostic hysteroscopy, recovery is often quick, with most patients returning to normal activities within a few days to a week.
For more extensive procedures like a hysterectomy surgery, the recovery period will be longer. A laparoscopic hysterectomy may require a two-to-four-week recovery, while a traditional open hysterectomy could require six weeks or more. Your surgeon will provide you with detailed postoperative instructions, including information on pain management, activity restrictions, and when you can expect to return to work and exercise. Our team is here to support you throughout your recovery process.
Scheduling a consultation with one of our gynecologic surgeons is a straightforward process. You can call our Athens office directly, and our staff will assist you in setting up an appointment. If you have been referred by another physician or are seeking a second opinion, please let us know so we can help coordinate the transfer of your medical records.
We are dedicated to providing clear answers and compassionate care when you need it most. We look forward to meeting with you to discuss your options.
Open surgery involves making one large incision to access the pelvic organs. Laparoscopic gynecologic surgery is a minimally invasive technique where the surgeon makes several small incisions. A laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) and specialized instruments are inserted through these small cuts. This approach typically results in less pain, minimal scarring, a shorter hospital stay, and a faster overall recovery.
The Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) is a treatment for abnormal cells on the cervix. A thin, low-voltage electrified wire loop is used to cut away the affected tissue. It is a very quick procedure that can often be performed in our office and is highly effective at preventing cervical cancer.
As endometriosis specialist doctors, our primary surgical goal is to remove as much of the endometrial tissue as possible using laparoscopic techniques. This is known as excision surgery. By removing the lesions causing inflammation and pain, we can potentially provide significant symptom relief and, in some cases, improve fertility.
No, a hysterectomy is not the only option. For women who wish to preserve their uterus, a myomectomy may be performed. This procedure specifically removes the fibroids while leaving the uterus in place. There are also non-surgical treatments for fibroids, and we will discuss all appropriate options with you.
We will provide you with a detailed list, but it's generally a good idea to bring personal identification, your insurance card, a list of your current medications, comfortable and loose-fitting clothes to wear home, and basic toiletries. Please leave valuables like jewelry at home.